Our system is maintained in top working order and is ready to go at a moment's notice thanks to Electro-Motion.

Scott W. Varady
Director of Engineering
San Ramon Marriott Hotel

Common Maintenance Mistakes: Not Performing a Load Bank Test Every Year

March 4, 2015

What is a Load Bank test?
A Load Bank test is run to determine the ability of the engine to perform properly and to remove unburned fuel deposits from the combustion chambers and the exhaust system.

How is it performed?
Because providing sufficient load from the building may not be practical, an electrical load (usually portable) is connected to the generator set so the engine can be run at its rated capacity (100% load).

Why are Load bank tests important?
Engines -- particularly diesel engines -- run "dirty," leaving behind unburned carbon deposits that can damage the engine and degrade performance. This is known as "Wet Stacking." More importantly, wet stacking can create a significant fire hazard. Therefore, these deposits must be removed periodically. In addition, the Load Bank test also verifies the engine and its components can still produce 100% of its rated load and can take a full power transfer without pause or delay.

Why does this test have to be done every year?
Deposits can build up rapidly when engines are run under light to no-load conditions. Also, degradation of performance capability can happen very quickly under certain conditions. An annual Load Bank test confirms your equipment is in peak condition, ready to support you during the next power outage.